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As of yesterday, the 25th Tribeca Festival came to a close, and with it, some amazing films premiered that I was lucky enough to see throughout the course of the festival.

Out of the 19 films I saw at the festival, these are simply the narrative features that I connected with the most. There are dozens of other films and documentaries that are exciting, revolutionary, and absolutely deserved of your time. Think of these as my personal greatest hits of my time at the festival, and the films I recommend the most.

Honorable Mentions

I have three honorable mentions to throw out quickly, with the first being Taxi Driver. It's an unimpeachable classic and revolutionary piece of cinema. The reason I only list it here is because it obviously isn't a new film, and I want to highlight things that are brand new.

They Fight is a really special film that tells the true story of a man recently released from prison facing his demons and finding his purpose as a youth boxing coach. The director Sheldon Candis was an absolute delight to see speak, and he has such a great outlook on cinema as a form. Using film as a way to uplift and inspire instead of perpetuate tragedy was a special and unique outlook that I really really appreciate. There's also some of the best child acting I've seen recently in a film, with a pair of performances that are so full of life and truth. They Fight is a special and triumphant film that you'll be able to see soon on July 17th on Hulu.

Mutter: The Diary of a Mother is a bleak and heavy film exploring the pains of motherhood through an inventive and squirm-inducing horror narrative that hit me pretty hard. The Turkish film features an incredibly powerful leading performance from actress Hazar Ergüçlü that reaches so many intense peaks, as well as somber and tragic lows that really captivated me. Mutter is a movie that utilizes the incredibly powerful idea of the horror coming from the ordinary, not the supernatural. The film exists in an incredibly bleak and realistic world that highlights societal evils that we deal with every day.

1. Ponderosa

Ponderosa is so awesome.

Rob Rice's new film is a bizarre, melancholic, hilarious meditation on the generational relationship we find ourselves in in this country, as well as the cultural state of the nation at large. The movie stars Jack Dylan Grazer as Zeke, a disillusioned and apathetic teenager who after his mother loses her job at the local Ponderosa buffet finds himself humoring George, portrayed by Bill Camp, who is a wealthy real estate developer who is also obsessed with becoming Zeke's father.

Every single performance in this movie is comedic genius and profound tragedy all wrapped into one. Set against the backdrop of a crushing suburbia complete with chain restaurants, miles of the same house, and the steady sound of the highway, the film gets to the heart of where America is sitting culturally, and captures a sense of alienation that I think a lot of people can relate to.

Oftentimes surreal and unexplainable, Ponderosa occupies an uncomfortable and anxious mood for most of its runtime, with Zeke consistently being assaulted with a forced companionship from George, and a sorrowful monotony from his mother, Sandra, played by Alexis Bledel. The film reminded me a lot of David Lynch's work in the ways it which it portrayed Americana through abstract sequences and emotions as opposed to straightforward statements.

Ponderosa is deeply sad, scary and so so funny. Heightening the cultural absurdity of this nation to a hyperbolic boiling point, the film is an incredible ride that leads you to the answers with a map that makes no sense whatsoever.

2. Via Negativa The cast and crew of Via Negativa attending the premier.

Photo by Cindy Ord on Getty Images

Via Negativa is an adaptation of the novel of the same name, written by Daniel Hornsby. Being a road movie, I was already predisposed to love this, as I find myself so enamored with a journey that is constantly moving. The story follows Father Dan (played by Young Mazino), a disillusioned priest who is recently removed from his duties, and decides to embark across the country with a gun and an injured coyote he accidentally hit with his car.

The film is a captivating, thoughtful journey across the American Midwest that asks questions of faith, purpose, and identity. Set against the backdrop of the delightful Americana of roadside attractions and beat up old diners, we follow Dan as each stop on his drive further tests and interrogates the life he has built for himself as well as the construction of the church and the faith he has in it.

Director Hannah Peterson is so good at utilizing stillness throughout the film. She allows Mazino's performance to be this quiet, textural, and internal thing that allows the audience to feel as if they're going on this journey as well. The rest of the performances are stellar as well, including the coyote, whose name is escaping me at this moment.

Via Negativa is a somber, sensitive, and powerful meditation on faith and forgiveness that transforms and strikes the audience with every step on its idiosyncratic road trip towards an answer we have yet to find.

3. The Long Haul The cast and crew of The Long Haul attending the premier.

Photo by Arturo Holmes on Getty Images

David Drake's directorial debut about a long haul trucker and the ghosts of her tragic past is a stunning and somber look at the weight we carry and the toll that can take on a person. From the opening moments of the film I was won over, with the opening credit sequence playing over this wonderful static shot that's soundtracked by "Wichita Lineman," a phenomenal phenomenal song that immediately sets the tone.

The two words that I have to describe this film are Margo Martindale. Her performance in this is one of my favorites of the whole year. It is easily one of the realest performances I have ever seen. Despite living nowhere near the American west, or interacting with long distance truckers, I feel like I have met her before. She radiates a warmth, a sadness, and an honesty that is so remarkable. It's a phenomenal performance.

Drake is extremely assured as a first time director as well, with every performance in this film being extremely truthful as well. I especially love Cole Sprouse as this complete jerk. He's a great parallel to Martindale's character CJ.

I absolutely love the visuals as well. There's such a warm softness to every single frame of the film. The way the western landscapes are photographed throughout are just so captivating. Shot like a postcard, and written with the sadness you find on the other side, The Long Haul is a beautifully human experience that everyone will connect with.

4. The Leader The cast and crew of The Leader attending the premier.

Photo by Dia Dipasupil on Getty Images

Last and absolutely, absolutely not least, is The Leader.

I'll be brief as a lot of my thoughts are written here, but I was absolutely blown away by this film. Michael J. Gallagher handles a massive, complicated story of tragedy, indoctrination, belonging, and faith in his exploration of the Heaven's Gate cult.

Every aspect from the performances, the cinematography, the editing, and the music is so impactful and harrowing. I found myself feeling sick by the end because it so effectively connected with me. The film respects its subjects and its audience by creating an emotional portrait into a doomed group of people and the conditions that brought them together. The knife of reality is razor sharp here, and it cut through me from start to finish.

I had a wonderful experience at the 25th Tribeca Festival, and I hope you all enjoy the movies as much as I did. There's a special future in the industry, and all of these films represent a movement coming forward that I am every excited for.

Related: Explore the Legendary and Tragic Hotel that Shaped Music History in New Documentary

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While there are nearly a dozen daily games that The New York Times offers, the one that has many puzzle solvers in a chokehold is Wordle. But what is Wordle exactly? Well, for those not in the know, it's a puzzle that includes one five letter word that needs to be solved within six tries. Sound simple? It may be—if you actually know the unused Wordle words that are left to help narrow down your answers each day.

Originally launching in 2021, the game was acquired by The New York Times just one short year later and with it, six words were removed from the initial 2,315 possible solutions. Those sacred words? Probably some that you would never guess: agora, pupal, lynch, fibre, slave and wench. (Yes, wench.) And as a result, the words not used in Wordle dropped to 2,309.

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How Are Unused Wordle Words Kept Track Of?

With all of the possible solutions available, it's difficult for puzzle goers to know what has already been used. But, if you were wondering just how the folks who generate the game keeps track of it, it's actually easier than you think. When players log on to the Wordle site, their browser automatically downloads a script that includes all past and future answers as well as unused Wordle words.

SOPA Images / Getty Images

Does Wordle Reuse Words?

Originally, Wordle puzzle answers were not reused, but as of early 2026, The New York Times made the decision to recycle some of the older answers so as to not exhaust the game.

All of the Possible Remaining Wordle Answers

Since it's release and subsequent move to The New York Times, Wordle has wildly grown in popularity on social media (and has even spawned a few fan-inspired variations of the game including Nerdle, Quordle and Octordle). Puzzle lovers are constantly racking their brains on the daily to figure out the Wordle answer and while some days may be easy, for those days that have you stumped, we've got you covered.

The below list of words is what's left as possible World answers as of June 15, 2026. And while we could give you the expected date that each word will be used (the Wordle script is already written through October 2027), that wouldn't be as fun as solving them on your own. We did, however, list all of the unused Wordle words in alphabetical order instead to help you along your journey.

Related: Today’s Wordle Hint, Answers for #1822 on Monday, June 15, 2026

Letter A

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• abled
• abode
• abort
• abuse
• adorn
• adieu
• afire
• afoul
• aider
• algae
• alibi
• allay
• amend
• amity
• anime
• annoy
• annul
• aping
• apnea
• arena
• armor
• arose
• array
• arson
• augur
• aunty
• avian
• axial
• axion

Letter B

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• baggy
• basal
• beard
• beech
• began
• begat
• belle
• berry
• betel
• bezel
• bible
• biddy
• bigot
• billy
• bingo
• bison
• bitty
• bless
• blind
• blitz
• bloat
• bluer
• blunt
• bobby
• boney
• booth
• bosom
• botch
• boule
• bound
• bowel
• brawl
• brick
• brunt
• burst
• bused
• bushy
• butch
• butte
• buxom

Letter C

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• cabal
• cabby
• cabin
• caddy
• cagey
• cairn
• canal
• caput
• caste
• cavil
• chaff
• chess
• chick
• china
• churn
• clack
• claim
• clank
• cleat
• clout
• clued
• cobra
• color
• comic
• copse
• cough
• coupe
• covey
• crack
• crash
• creek
• creep
• creme
• cress
• crick
• cried
• crier
• crony
• croup
• crude
• crump
• curry
• curvy
• cutie

Letter D

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• daily
• dairy
• dealt
• debar
• deign
• demon
• demur
• derby
• dilly
• dimly
• diode
• dirty
• ditch
• diver
• downy
• drake
• drank
• drawl
• dress
• dried
• drier
• droit
• dross
• drown
• druid
• dryly
• dully
• dumpy
• dunce
• dying

Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Monday, June 15, 2026

Letter E

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• eater
• eclat
• eking
• elect
• elegy
• elide
• emcee
• enemy
• entry
• erect
• ester
• evict
• eying

Letter F

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• fairy
• fanny
• fatal
• fatty
• fauna
• fecal
• fella
• felon
• femme
• femur
• fence
• fetal
• fetus
• ficus
• fight
• filer
• filmy
• filth
• flack
• fleck
• fleet
• flier
• fluid
• flush
• fraud
• freed
• freer
• friar
• frisk
• fudge
• furor
• furry
• fussy

Letter G

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• gaffe
• gaily
• gassy
• gayer
• gayly
• gazer
• geeky
• gipsy
• girly
• giver
• godly
• golly
• gonad
• gourd
• grape
• graze
• grill
• grope
• grown
• grunt
• guilt
• gulch
• gusto
• gypsy

Letter H

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• harem
• harpy
• haute
• hedge
• hippy
• honor
• horny
• hotly
• humus
• husky
• hussy
• hydro
• hymen

Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Today, Monday, June 15, 2026

Letter I

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• icily
• idiot
• idyll
• iliac
• imply
• ingot

Letter J

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• jetty
• joist
• juicy
• junta
• junto
• juror

Letter K

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• kappa
• kinky
• kitty
• kneed

Letter L

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• leant
• legal
• leper
• liege
• lipid
• loamy
• login
• loose
• lorry
• lumen
• lupus
• lurch
• lymph
• lyric

Letter M

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• macro
• mamma
• mammy
• mange
• mangy
• meaty
• mecca
• melee
• milky
• minim
• minor
• missy
• mocha
• moody
• moron
• motif
• mound
• mower
• mucus
• muddy
• murky
• musky

Letter N

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• newer
• ninny
• noose
• nosey
• nutty

Related: Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Monday, June 15, 2026

Letter O

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• oaken
• obese
• octal
• odder
• olden
• ombre
• opium
• optic
• orbit
• outgo
• ovary
• ovate
• ovine
• ovoid
• owing

Letter P

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• paddy
• pagan
• paler
• palsy
• pansy
• parse
• paste
• pasty
• payee
• payer
• penal
• pence
• penny
• pesto
• piggy
• pivot
• pizza
• plied
• plier
• plush
• poesy
• pooch
• poser
• posit
• pouch
• prawn
• pried
• privy
• pubic
• pudgy
• pulse
• punch
• puppy
• puree
• purer
• purse
• pushy
• putty
• pygmy

Letter Q

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• quasi
• queer
• quoth

Letter R

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• rabbi
• radar
• radii
• rajah
• rally
• ralph
• randy
• rarer
• raspy
• raven
• razor
• rearm
• rebar
• recut
• reedy
• refit
• reign
• renal
• reply
• reset
• rifle
• rigor
• rinse
• ripen
• risky
• river
• rivet
• roast
• roger
• rotor
• ruler
• rumor

Related: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Monday, June 15, 2026

Letter S

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• sadly
• safer
• salon
• salve
• salvo
• saner
• sappy
• satyr
• sauce
• savoy
• scalp
• scaly
• scamp
• scary
• scion
• scoop
• scree
• screw
• scuba
• seize
• semen
• setup
• sewer
• shack
• shady
• shale
• shalt
• shark
• sheen
• sheer
• sheik
• shied
• shiny
• shirt
• shock
• shone
• shook
• shoot
• shrew
• sieve
• sigma
• silky
• sinew
• sixty
• skulk
• slack
• slain
• slant
• slash
• sleet
• slept
• slide
• slimy
• sling
• slink
• sloop
• slunk
• slurp
• slush
• slyly
• smack
• smoky
• smote
• sneer
• sniff
• snipe
• snowy
• snuck
• snuff
• soapy
• sonar
• sooth
• sooty
• spank
• spawn
• spell
• sperm
• spied
• spiky
• spilt
• spook
• spree
• spunk
• spurn
• squib
• stalk
• stave
• steak
• steal
• steer
• stoke
• stoop
• strip
• stuck
• stunk
• suing
• swami
• swarm
• swash
• swear
• swept
• swift
• swore
• synod

Letter T

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• taint
• taker
• tamer
• tango
• tarot
• tatty
• tenet
• tense
• tepee
• terra
• theta
• thong
• tight
• timid
• toddy
• token
• tonal
• tonga
• torus
• toxin
• tramp
• trash
• tread
• tribe
• tried
• truce
• truer
• trump
• trunk
• tubal
• tulle
• tumor
• turbo
• twixt
• tying

Letter U

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• uncut
• unity
• unset
• unwed
• urine
• utile

Letter V

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• valor
• valve
• vapor
• vaunt
• verso
• vicar
• vigil
• vinyl
• viper
• virus
• vista
• vomit

Letter W

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• wager
• waist
• waive
• warty
• welch
• welsh
• wider
• widow
• wight
• willy
• wimpy
• winch
• wispy
• woody
• wooly
• woozy
• worth
• wrack
• wrest
• wring
• wryly

Letter X

Ni'Kesia Pannell

All of the five-letter Wordle words that start with X have been used.

Letter Y

Ni'Kesia Pannell

All of the five-letter Wordle words that start with Y have been used.

Letter Z

Ni'Kesia Pannell

• zonal

Each day The New York Times offers a new five-letter word from the list above of unused Wordle words for players to guess. Plenty of strategies are used, but if you need a little help solving things, you can always check out our daily Wordle hints and answers to push you in the right direction.

Related: Over 500,000 Packages of a Popular Mac and Cheese Have Been Recalled Due to This Potentially Dangerous Reason

Hollywood legends Jamie Lee Curtis and MariskaHargitay recently reconnected to discuss their experiences as actors.

The pair were both born with a familiar understanding of the entertainment industry. Curtis is the daughter of legendary actors Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh. While Hargitay’s late mother was Jayne Mansfield, an actress and Playboy playmate who died in a car accident.

Now, they are known for their impact on TV and film. The duo reflected on the industry and their careers as part of Variety and CNN’s Actors on Actors series. 

Curtis spoke about her experience on the 1989 sitcom, Anything but Love, which she called her "favorite job ever.”

“John Ritter was one of the producers of the show. I loved him. We were auditioning actors for the part of a rogue guy who kept coming on to me in a scene,” she said. “Every actor who came in backed me up against a desk, and I had to push him off. After one guy left, John Ritter came over to me and he whispered in my ear, ‘You have really funny legs.’”

The actor spoke about how important it is to have women in positions of power.

“Women are not often in positions of leadership. For the first time, you have a woman running [SVU]. How important was that for you?” Curtis asked the Law & Order: Special Victims Unit actress.

“It’s everything. MicheleFazekas, who is now our showrunner, is hilarious and talented. We also have a female directing producer named BrennaMalloy, who pushes me to new heights,” Hargitay responded.

Curtis is known for her roles in films like Halloween, Everything Everywhere All at Once, and Freaky Friday. At 67 years old, she is currently on the 2026 show Scarpetta.

“[You and I] are two women over 60, both on shows that have women showrunners and directing producers,” she said. “I’m only on [Scarpetta] because Nicole Kidman said, ‘Jamie is on the show, right?’ I was a producer. I just wanted to be a boss; I didn’t want to have to put on the gear.” 

“You do wear some gear in Scarpetta. You’re showing the girls,” Hargitay said while nodding towards the True Lies star’s breasts.

“The girls were retired. It was all over,” Curtis joked.

Taylor Swiftand Travis Kelce’s wedding is the event of the summer. That is, if it happens this summer. 

Speculation about the date and venue started almost immediately after the pair announced their engagement last August. Most recently, rumors swirled that Swift and Kelce would wed at Madison Square Garden over the July 4th weekend. And while neither the musician/superstar nor her NFL pro beau has confirmed anything (yet), the mayor of New York City may have just dropped a pretty big hint.

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 14: Mayor Zohran Mamdani in New York City. (Photo by NDZ/Star Max/GC Images) Getty Images

During a press conference on Monday, Mayor Zohran Mamdani spoke to the media about preparations the NYPD, the state, and the city are making for the FIFA World Cup 2026 games. He said, “We are the biggest city in the country. We are used to big events, and we are incredibly excited for this one.”

Mamdani continued, “We know it coincides with the Knicks finals run; we know it coincides with July 4th, America 250, Taylor Swift’s wedding, all happening at the same time, and we are so excited to welcome the world here.” Cue a collective, “Um, what?”

Did Mamdani just casually let the cat out of the bag and confirm that Taylor Swift and Jason Kelce are getting married in New York City during the July Fourth holiday weekend? 

When a video of the press conference hit social media, fans weighed in. In a recent Reddit thread, some Swifties floated the idea that Mamdani’s statement was just a joke, posting, “I’m gonna keep believing it’s not MSG and just choose to believe that Mamdani is just being tongue and cheek” and that the mayor was just “trying to get a chuckle.” 

Another commenter added, “This is the funniest possible way this rumor could have been confirmed,” while someone else said, “Pretty sure he’s trolling.”

While Mayor Mamdani may or may not have leaked the power couple’s plans, there is one thing he does know—he isn’t going to the wedding. When reporters asked if he’s invited, he told them no, sharing, “I wish them a lovely wedding. I’ll listen to ‘Only the Young’ at home, on my own.”

As of now, Swift and Kelce have not released any information on their future nuptials.

On June 15, California Governor Gavin Newsomreleased a formal video to share that he and his wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, were under investigation by the Department of Justice.

Related: White House UFC Fighter Insults Michelle Obama in Shocking Victory Speech

"Today, my wife & I joinedDonald Trump’s hit list," he wrote, adding that the DOJ "have not found a crime - they are simply trying to find one... because I am considering running for President."

The political leader went on to say that he felt Trump was "going after the mother of [his] children" to intimidate him, saying, "He's coming after my wife, Jen, a public servant. A woman who's dedicated her life to supporting women and girls. Someone who has done nothing wrong other than having the temerity to advocate for what she believes in."

He then issued a warning to the president, saying, "you can subpoena my records, you can investigate me, you can harass me, put my name on every and any enemies list you have, but leave my wife and family out of your personal vendetta.”

Though all eyes are on Newsom in recent years, his wife is no stranger to the spotlight as a former actress, a documentarian, and a social advocate who was involved in the Harvey Weinstein case as an accuser.

Read on to learn more about Gavin Newsom's wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom.

Jennifer Siebel Newsom was an actress before meeting Gavin

Before becoming California’s "first partner" and an award-winning documentary filmmaker, Jennifer pursued an acting career in Hollywood. After earning degrees from Stanford University and completing a certificate program at the American Conservatory Theater, she moved to Los Angeles in 2002 and appeared in television shows including Mad Men, Numb3rs, Strong Medicine and Life.

She later shifted her focus to documentary filmmaking, creating projects such as Miss Representation and The Mask You Live In, which examine gender stereotypes and media representation.

Jennifer Siebel Newsom had a famous boyfriend before Gavin

Before beginning her relationship with Gavin Newsom, Jennifer famously dated actor and filmmaker George Clooney. The pair were romantically linked in the early 2000s and made several public appearances together.

Gavin Newsom and Jennifer got married in 2008

Jennifer and Gavin Newsom began dating in October 2006, shortly after his divorce from former San Francisco first lady Kimberly Guilfoyle (who was later engaged toDonald Trump Jr.from 2021 to 2024).

They announced their engagement in December 2007 and married on July 26, 2008, in Stevensville, Montana. Since then, Jennifer has served alongside Newsom during his time as mayor of San Francisco, lieutenant governor, and governor of California.

Gavin Newsom and Jennifer share four children Gavin Newsom, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, and their kids

Getty

The couple are parents to four children: daughters Montana and Brooklynn and sons Hunter and Dutch.

Their oldest daughter, Montana, was born in 2009 and was named after the state where her parents married. Hunter arrived in 2011, followed by Brooklynn in 2013 and finally Dutch in 2016. The kids make some rare red carpet appearances with their parents, but generally stay out of the spotlight.

Jennifer Siebel Newsom was involved in the Harvey Weinstein case

Jennifer was among the women who testified against Harvey Weinstein during his 2022 Los Angeles sexual assault trial. She alleged that Weinstein assaulted her in a Beverly Hills hotel room in 2005 after inviting her to what she believed would be a professional meeting while she was a young actress.

Jennifer initially testified anonymously as “Jane Doe No. 4” before publicly identifying herself. During emotional testimony, she told jurors that Weinstein had used his power in the entertainment industry to prey on aspiring women. Jurors were unable to reach a verdict on the counts related to her allegations, resulting in a mistrial on those charges.

Next: Chris Stapleton’s Wife Teams Up With ’70s Rock Legend for ‘Surprise’ Song

Co-written with producer Ed Townsend, the '70s hit "Let's Get it On" by Marvin Gaye was released on June 15th, 1973. The tune would go on to be the most successful single for Motown for Gaye and one of his overall, most well-known songs from his career.

Townsend originally conceptualized the song while in rehab for alcoholism and it had more religious and spiritual undertones. However, Gaye felt it should have a different message and two ended up collaborating on entirely new lyrics. The final version, which appears on the album of the same title, is a soulful and emotional tune about sexual liberation that is filled with signature, funky guitar arrangements.

The song hit number one on Billboard on September 8th, 1973, where it remained for two weeks. "Let's Get it On" would stay within the top 10 on Billboard for over 13 weeks, with the majority of them placing the song in the top 5. For the entirety of 1973, Billboard ranked the song as the number four song of the year.

At the time of release, the single for "Let's Get it On" was Motown's largest-selling recording of all time, selling over four-million copies between 1973 and 1974 with a million being sold in the US alone.

In 2016, the family of Ed Townsend (who died in 2003) sued Engligh singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran over his song, "Thinking Out Loud." They alleged that "the melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic compositions of 'Thinking' are substantially and/or strikingly similar to the drum composition of 'Let's Get It On'." The Townsend claim was rejected in court in a juried trial that took place in 2023.

"Let's Get it On" was ranked number 167 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. The song was also ranked #32 on Billboard magazine'sHot 100 All-Time Top Songs list.

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Related: 'First Lady of Jazz' and 13-Grammy Award Winner Died 30 Years Ago Today

Country music star Brad Paisley has released a new song, “Someone Else’s Arms,” featuring fellow country artist Miranda Lambert, while continuing his international tour and expanding his ongoing Tacklebox music project.

Paisley announced the release on Instagram, writing, “Someone Else’s Arms featuring Miranda Lambert is out now.”

The track becomes the latest addition to Tacklebox, a project that launched in May and draws from Paisley’s extensive collection of unreleased and previously unrecorded songs. 

The release arrives as the Grammy-winning singer performs across Europe before returning to the United States for several summer tour dates, including a July 4 appearance at Stadium of Fire in Provo, Utah.

Brad Paisley performs during the "Christmas in Rockefeller Center" show.

Photo by: Scott Gries/NBC via Getty Images

“Someone Else’s Arms” is the seventh song unveiled through the project and follows earlier releases “Fallin’,” “This Town Ain’t Small Enough,” “Without You,” “Hi Ho Silverado” featuring David Lee Murphy, “Overnight Low” and “Helen Back.”

According to Paisley, more songs are expected in the coming weeks.

View this post on Instagram Brad Paisley’s Tacklebox Project Continues to Grow

The Tacklebox project gives fans access to songs from different periods of Paisley’s songwriting career, many of which had never been officially released.

“I see this project as never-ending,” Paisley explained when announcing the initiative, according to Poll Star. “It’s almost like the fans have a direct link to my Dropbox or to a playlist that never ends.”

“We are calling it Tacklebox because it’s a box full of hooks, country lyric hooks. In this digital age, I have every song I’ve ever written at my fingertips.”

Paisley said the project allowed him and his team to revisit older material and bring it to life for modern audiences.

“This project gave us a license to dig back into the catalog of songs that were never released, that feel like a time period, a style of writing, a sound and nostalgia,” he said.

The release of “Someone Else’s Arms” comes as Paisley continues a busy touring schedule throughout Europe.

His current run includes performances in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, the Netherlands, Germany and Switzerland before he returns to the United States.

One of the singer’s most notable upcoming appearances is his July 4 headlining performance at Stadium of Fire in Provo, Utah. The concert marks his second time headlining the annual event.

Additional U.S. dates are scheduled throughout the summer and fall as part of the Brad Paisley Live Tour, with new stops added in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Florida, Texas and other states.

The tour follows a productive period for the country star, who released his holiday album Snow Globe Town and has continued sharing new music through Tacklebox.

Paisley, a West Virginia native, remains one of country music’s most recognizable artists. Since signing his first major label deal in the late 1990s, he has built a career that includes multiple platinum-selling albums, dozens of charting singles and numerous collaborations with fellow country stars.

Now, with “Someone Else’s Arms” featuring Miranda Lambert, Paisley is giving fans another glimpse into a catalog of songs that spans decades of songwriting.

Related: Country Star Makes Billboard Chart History With No. 1 Hit Song Lasting 28 Weeks

Over 60 years after helping define the California surf sound that shaped 1960s pop music, the Beach Boys have earned another major honor. BBC Music's Classical Music recently released its ranking of the greatest American bands of all time, placing the Beach Boys ahead of some of the most celebrated acts in rock history.

Originally formed in Hawthorne, California, in 1961, the Beach Boys were initially known as The Pendletones before adopting the name that would become synonymous with surf rock, sunshine pop, and some of the most influential recordings ever made. The original lineup featured brothers Brian,Carl, and Dennis Wilson, their cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine.

In Classical Music's latest ranking, the Beach Boys were named the No. 1 American band of all time, ahead of the Eagles at No. 2, Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band at No. 3, Aerosmith at No. 4, and Nirvana at No. 5.

The ranking highlighted the Beach Boys' lasting impact, particularly the band's groundbreaking vocal harmonies.

"More than just surfboards and sun, The Beach Boys are the pinnacle of American musical achievement. Under Brian Wilson's tortured genius, they moved from simple pop to the symphonic masterpiece of Pet Sounds. Their vocal harmonies are the closest thing to the divine that rock music has ever produced. They are the ultimate American band because they dreamt of a California paradise that was both beautiful and heartbreakingly fragile."

Related: Ringo Starr, 85, Leaves Fans Stunned At Recent Concert: 'Looks 45!'

From Surf Rock to American Music Icons

The Beach Boys' catalog includes enduring classics such as "Surfin' U.S.A.," "California Girls," "Wouldn't It Be Nice," "God Only Knows," "Good Vibrations," and "Kokomo." Over the decades, the group has sold more than 100 million records worldwide and remains one of the most commercially successful and influential bands in American music history.

Their influence extends far beyond surf rock. Music historians credit Brian Wilson with helping establish the concept of the cohesive studio album through the band's 1966 release Pet Sounds, which featured lush harmonies and boundary-pushing production techniques.

The recording of Pet Sounds was a major influence on the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band and continues to inspire artists seeking to redefine studio recording and push the boundaries of popular music.

How The Beach Boys Got Their Name

Formerly known as The Pendletones, the band's first record label wanted a name that better reflected their California image and sound. During the release of their debut single, the group discovered that the name had been changed without their approval.

Music executive Russ Regan is widely credited with helping popularize the name The Beach Boys, a title that perfectly encapsulated the band's image and musical style.

The Beach Boys' Legacy Endures

More than six decades after their formation, the Beach Boys remain one of the defining symbols of American music. Their songs continue to appear in films, television shows, commercials, and streaming playlists, introducing their music to new generations of listeners.

For many critics and fans, Classical Music's ranking simply adds to a legacy that has already secured the Beach Boys' place among the most influential and beloved bands in music history.

Related: Paul McCartney Reveals His Favorite Beatle in Viral Interview

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Good news for melo-death metal fans: The pioneers of the rock genre, Dark Tranquillity, have just confirmed they’re working on new music for their first album in three years. 

In an interview with Rock Hard magazine, transcribed by Blabbermouth, DT frontman Mikael Stanne dished on the band’s progress.

View this post on Instagram

“It is a lot of work in progress, actually,” Stanne said. “That’s what we’re doing right now. … We’ve been writing for a couple of months already.”

The forthcoming album follows the Swedish melodic death metal band’s 2024 album, Endtime Signals, which critics praised as an introspective addition to the band’s discography. Feeling the pressure to produce another gem, Stanne said that’s why they’re taking their time with this one.

“Sure, the pressure is on, but it's always on,” he said. “You always have to think, like, How do we top the last one? But that’s why we take our time with it, [to] make sure that nothing is left to chance, everything is exactly what we want.”

At the time of writing, DT is shooting for a 2027 release, sometime after summer, giving fans something to look forward to. 

“That’s how these things work,” he said. “It takes forever, but it’s going really great, and I’m really excited. … I think we know ourselves better as a band now, so I think that’s gonna hopefully … I’m pretty sure it’s gonna translate into songwriting and how the album’s gonna sound, too. So it’s super exciting. I can’t wait.”

DT burst onto the melo-death metal scene in Gothenburg, Sweden, back in 1989. As proven with their 2016 documentary, Dark Tranquillity — Out Of Nothing, the band has become one of the trailblazing groups in the melo-death metal scene.

View the original article to see embedded media.

Currently, DT is touring Europe. No North American dates have been scheduled just yet.

Related: ’70s Rock-Inspired Fantasy Series Fueled by Legends Has a 100% on Rotten Tomatoes

While it’s important not to care too much about what others think, it’s understandable that you may want to come across as likable (or at least not instantly unlikable, right?). You might feel that way for various reasons: Perhaps you’re a people-pleaser, want to make friends as an adult or need to win over a client at work. Other than the more obvious steps—like simply smiling at people—you might read about habits that make people likable or behaviors to ditch if you want to be more amiable. 

While helpful, those tips are unfortunately not foolproof or fail-safe. After all, we can’t control what others think, and we can easily turn people off even when we don’t say the “wrong” thing. At the same time, having that kind of information in your back pocket is a smart first step. While nobody is perfect or liked by everyone, certain phrases are usually no-gos in social situations—and some are more surprising than others.

To help readers, Parade spoke to an etiquette expert. Ahead, she reveals 11 phrases that make you “instantly unlikable” with strangers, explaining why for each. Then, she shares how to avoid those phrases (while still getting your point across) and how to be more appealing to people you haven't met before.

Related: These 11 Habits Will Make People Dislike You Fast, Etiquette Experts Warn

Lucy Lambriex/Getty Images

11 Phrases That Make You ‘Instantly Unlikable’ With Strangers, According to an Etiquette Expert

When you meet someone for the first time, you may want to avoid using these specific comments, an expert warns.

1. “You look tired”

While this comment may be true (and even a sign of concern or care), it’s not one to say.

“Even if they are tired, what does pointing that out help?” says Genevieve (Jenny) Dreizen, the COO and co-founder of Fresh Starts Registry, a modern-day etiquette and boundaries expert and the author of Simple Scripts to Support Your People: What to Say When You Don’t Know What to Say.

She encourages genuinely asking how the person is instead.

Related: 11 Phrases That Make You ‘Instantly Unlikable’ in Group Settings, According to an Etiquette Expert

2. “I’m not trying to be rude, but…”

Usually, if you have to say this, you’re about to say something rude.

“This is a disclaimer that does the opposite of what it promises: It signals that something rude is coming, and the person braces for it,” Dreizen says. “If you have to preface something this way, it’s worth considering whether it needs to be said at all.”

3. “Must be nice”

Did this phrase just drain excitement and happiness out of your body? It can do that. It “dismisses someone’s joy, accomplishment or good news by reframing it as unearned luck,” Dreizen explains. “It makes the other person feel guilty for sharing something positive.”

To both celebrate with the person and honor your curiosity, she encourages a phrase like, “That sounds amazing. How did that come together?”

Related: 7 Phrases That Subtly Suggest Someone Feels Resentful, Psychologists Warn

4. “I could never do that” 

These backwards compliments are like negging: They sound self-deprecating or complimentary at first, but often contain hidden judgment.

“It draws a line between your choices and theirs, and the other person feels it,” Dreizen shares.

5. “Well, that’s just common sense”

This dismissive and unkind phrase “shrinks people,” according to Dreizen.

“This tells someone that what they just shared—maybe something they learned the hard way—should have been obvious,” she says.

6. “You always…” or “You never…”

Absolutes are absolute no-nos.

“Even when the pattern is real, framing it as ‘always’ or ‘never’ puts people on the defensive immediately,” Dreizen explains. 

She adds that absolutes can shut down conversation. They can cause people to stop listening and start cataloguing exceptions.

7. “I’m just being honest”

While honesty is important, it needs to be paired with kindness. If someone says a phrase like this, it’s probably to cover for a rude comment.

“This phrase is almost never used to deliver a kind truth,” Dreizen states. “It’s most often used to sneak criticism in under the guise of, ‘What, you want me to lie?’”

Related: Psychologists Say People Who Have ‘Absolutely No Filter’ Likely Have These 7 Traits

8. “It’s not that hard”

Just because something was easy for you doesn’t mean it’s easy for everyone.

“Saying this out loud makes someone feel small for struggling,” Dreizen explains.

9. “Whatever”

This one word can cause a lot of hurt. Dreizen says it communicates: “‘I don’t care about what you just said; I don’t respect this conversation enough to give you a real response.’” 

Even if you truly don’t care or are trying to be agreeable, she adds, it can shut down conversation and make future comments sound petty.

10. “You’re too sensitive” 

You might not understand someone’s hurt, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t real for them.

“This tells someone that their emotional response is wrong, which is a hard thing to come back from in a conversation,” Dreizen warns. 

She adds that feelings don’t need other people’s approval or agreement to be valid.

Related: 12 Signs You Might Be a ‘Highly Sensitive Person,’ According to a Therapist

11. “Let me play devil’s advocate.”

This is just a nope.

“I am not sure who suggested the devil needs an advocate, but I suggest they do not,” Dreizen says. 

If you have a good-natured counterpoint, she encourages saying something like, “If I could provide a counter-argument,” to be more conversationally inclusive.

How To Avoid These Phrases Altogether—With Strangers or in General

Thinking before you speak and being mindful of how certain phrases come across are important steps to foster healthy communication. Dreizen finds that the phrases above “are not curious, warm or welcoming.” 

Other than being aware of that, she encourages taking a breath and thinking about the person before you.

“See their joy, tiredness, excitement as an invitation to connection instead of something to be proven, questioned or picked apart,” she suggests. “A breath and a reminder of where you want this relationship to go is a good step in the right direction.”

Related: Why You Shouldn't Ignore These 6 Common 'Brightsiding' Phrases, Psychologists Warn

How To Be More Likable With Strangers

So we know what’s unlikable. What about the opposite? Get this: Being “likable” with strangers doesn’t mean what you may think it does. 

Dreizen says it “isn’t about being charming or performing warmth,” but about “making the other person feel like they matter in the brief window of time you share.” 

To do this, she suggests asking questions, actually listening to their answers and allowing their stories to be their stories without trying to match or “one-up” them.

Related: 10 Easy Ways To Become More Charismatic, According to Psychologists

Remembering that connection matters more than precision is also key, the etiquette expert says.

“Details get confused, sometimes we all get flummoxed by a date or a location—assume the other person is not trying to mislead you, especially when there is no reason for it, and focus on the connection,” she explains.

Last but not least, and when in doubt, she emphasizes helping people feel good about what they say.

“That’s it,” she concludes. “That’s the whole thing.”

Up Next:

Related: Etiquette Experts Say These 8 Nonverbal Habits Make You Seem Rude Without Realizing It

Source:

• Genevieve (Jenny) Dreizen is the COO and co-founder of Fresh Starts Registry, a modern-day etiquette and boundaries expert and the author of Simple Scripts to Support Your People: What to Say When You Don’t Know What to Say.

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String lights are one of the easiest ways to make an outdoor space feel warmer and more inviting. Whether you're hosting friends, enjoying a quiet evening on the patio, or simply spending more time outside during the summer, they instantly create a cozy atmosphere. If you want something a little more playful than standard string lights, choosing a design with decorative details can add personality as well as illumination.

One charming option is the Rirool Solar Sunflower String Lights. Right now, they're on sale for 48% off at Walmart, bringing the price down from $21 to just $11. For an outdoor decor upgrade that feels unique and seasonal, it's an impressive value.

Rirool Solar Sunflower String Lights, $11 (was $21) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

These lights feature 50 warm-white LED bulbs woven through realistic yellow silk-like sunflowers and green leaves. The cheerful floral design adds a bright, garden-inspired touch during the day and a soft glow after sunset. With 20 sunflower accents spread across a 16-foot strand, they offer plenty of visual impact without overwhelming a space.

The warm 3000K lighting creates a cozy ambiance that's perfect for outdoor gatherings or relaxing evenings. Plus, the lights include eight different modes, which makes them easy to customize to your space’s vibe.

One of the biggest advantages is the hassle-free setup. Because they're solar-powered, there's no need for outlets, extension cords, or complicated wiring. Simply place the solar panel in a sunny location and drape the lights wherever you'd like. After approximately six to eight hours of charging in direct sunlight, they can provide eight to 10 hours of illumination at night.

They're also designed to withstand outdoor conditions. An IP65 waterproof rating helps protect the lights against rain, snow, and changing weather. The combination of silk-like flowers, plastic stems, and durable copper wiring creates a decorative display that's built for long-term outdoor use.

One shopper shared that the sunflower lights “add such a beautiful, cozy glow” to their outdoor space, writing, “They truly brighten my evenings and make my home feel extra special.” Another described them as “very bright” and “pretty,” adding, “You could attach them to anything and hang them very easily.”

Shop More Deals

• Mibote Solar Outdoor String Lights, $30 (was $46) at Walmart
• Mainstays Indoor 50-Count Battery-Operated LED Wire Lights, From $6 (was $7) at Walmart
• Daybetter 2-Pack Sunflower Solar Lights, $19 (was $30) at Walmart

Related: Walmart's 'Beautiful' $25 Solar Firefly Lights 'Add Joy and Sparkle' to Yards and Gardens

For an affordable way to add both light and personality to your outdoor space, the Rirool Solar Sunflower String Lights are an easy pick. At just $11 with Walmart's current 48% discount, they're a fun and budget-friendly upgrade.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha put on a show-stopping performance on Monday, June 15, during the national team's World Cup debut against Spain, which came into the tournament ranked No. 3 in FIFA’s world rankings.

Spain went into the game as the heavy favorites, but the 40-year-old goalkeeper's performance was a large part of the reason for the final score being 0-0, earning Cape Verde its first World Cup point.

And with that, he has earned worldwide attention.

Vozinha began the day with 45,000 followers on Instagram, but after the game that resulted in a draw, his account had over 3.3 million followers as of 6:45 p.m. on Monday.

Brilliant save by Vozinha! 🧤

The Cape Verde stopper is doing everything he can to keep Spain out pic.twitter.com/R9I7LcXNiz

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) June 15, 2026

And with that, Vozinha earned FIFA Man of the Match recognition and cemented himself in the history books, becoming the oldest goalkeeper in World Cup history to keep a clean sheet in a tournament match, having made seven saves.

Vozinha was clearly emotional, with tears in his eyes after the game. And with that, he held up his nation's flag with pride

Vozinha was in tears after his heroic performance earned a clean sheet and Cabo Verde's first-ever World Cup point 🥺 pic.twitter.com/1W7urCuAKQ

— B/R Football (@brfootball) June 15, 2026

So, what does he think of all his new followers?

"Crazy," he said during an interview after the match.

Vozinha, who has been a member of the Cape Verde national team since 2012, will have two more group-stage games against Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. And with that, a win in either could earn them a spot in the Round of 32.

Fans React To Vozinha's Performance

"This is the greatest performance ever by a goal keeper in the World Cup history," one person commented.

"40 years old. Playing in Portugal's 2nd division. Facing Spain with 74% possession and 27 shots... and this man delivers a masterclass clean sheet on his World Cup debut for a tiny island nation. Tears of pure glory. This is why we love football. Vozinha is a legend," another person wrote.

"Most 40-year-olds cry because their knees hurt. Vozinha cries because he just bodied Spain. Different breed," a fan posted.

"Spain completely dominated possession with 74% of the ball and 23 total shots (8 on goal), yet Vozinha stood like a wall to secure a historic clean sheet," another fan said.

"I think I just found that one team to root for in this world cup. What a performance?!!!," one fan shared.

Lauren Grahamis channeling her inner Rory Gilmore and sharing some of the books that are currently on her bookshelf.

The Gilmore Girls star is known for playing Lorelai Gilmore, the fast-talking, coffee-loving mother of book-obsessed daughter Rory — but in real life, Graham is quite the bookworm, too.

In her latest Instagram post, Graham let her fans in on what she's been reading lately and which books are currently on her TBR ("To Be Read") list. She unveiled a list of 8 book titles, featuring both "oldies and newies," while providing some honest reviews and teasing which books she plans on diving into this summer.

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8 Books Currently on Lauren Graham's Bookshelf:

• Mrs. Dalloway, Virginia Woolf
• The Remains of the Day,Kazuo Ishiguro
• Transcription, Ben Lerner
• Off Season, Avigayl Sharp
• The Keeper, Tana French
• One & Only, Maurene Goo
• A History of England in 25 Poems, Catherine Clark

View this post on Instagram Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf

Graham said: "Was supposed to read it in college. MAY have used Cliff Notes instead."

The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro

Graham said: "Reread this recently. It's just so beautiful."

Transcription by Ben Lerner

Graham said: "Man loses phone and so much more."

Off Season by Avigayl Sharp

Graham said: "TBR, heard great things about this debut novel."

The Keeper by Tana French

Graham said: "Third in a series. Start with The Seeker if you haven't read the first two."

One & Only by Maurene Goo

Graham said: "Delightful romance!"

Still Life by Louise Penny

Graham said: "TBR, needed an LP thriller!"

A History of England in 25 Poems by Catherine Clarke

Graham said: "TBR, judged this one by its (beautiful) cover"

Related: 'Gilmore Girls' Star Makes Rare Red Carpet Return for First New Film Since 2019

With Father’s Day around the corner, Crumbl has unveiled its weekly rotating menu. Featuring new desserts like Root Beer Float and Everything But The Dad Jokes cookies, fans are calling this week’s menu the “best lineup yet.”

Available from June 15-20, the new desserts can be purchased as a Father’s Day Bundl, with festive packaging and “everything you need to make dad feel celebrated,” according to Crumbl.

In addition to their new flavors, Crumbl has reintroduced its Dubai-Style Chocolate Cheesecake, as they continue to evolve their menu beyond just cookies.

After announcing this week’s lineup on Instagram, fans took to Crumbl’s comment section to express their excitement for the new desserts.

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“Thank you for bringing the Dubai chocolate cheesecake … back,” one user commented. “Perfect for Father’s Day! My dad and husband love them!”

“You had me at root beer float, chocolate toffee tres leches cake, and the Dubai style cheesecake,” another said.

“every dad in the group chat is getting this sent to them with 'hint hint' from their kids,” another joked.

Crumbl/JBC PR

Find the full menu below:

🤎 ROOT BEER FLOAT COOKIE (NEW)

A marbled vanilla bean and root beer cookie topped with a swirl of creamy vanilla bean and root beer mousse.

🟧 CHOCOLATE TOFFEE TRES LECHES CAKE FT. HEATH

A chocolate cake soaked in melty caramel sauce and topped with whipped cream and chopped HEATH pieces.

🔥 COOKIES & CREAM GRILL-IT COOKIE (NEW)

A cookies & cream skillet cookie topped with a swirl of chocolate cookies & cream mousse, finished with a semi-sweet chocolate grill design and gummy bears on a skewer.

😂 EVERYTHING BUT THE DAD JOKES COOKIE (NEW)

An original cookie packed with candy pieces and peanut butter chips, topped with a melted peanut butter pool and crunchy peanut butter-coated potato chips, and finished with pops of more candy pieces.

🥜 PEANUT BUTTER CUP COOKIE FT. REESE'S

A classic peanut butter cookie topped with a pool of melted peanut butter chips, drizzled with gooey milk chocolate, and sprinkled with REESE’S Peanut Butter Cups.

💚 DUBAI-STYLE CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE (ENCORE)

A decadent chocolate cheesecake nestled on a chocolate graham crust, topped with crispy Kataifi and pistachio filling, a drizzle of pistachio cream, and a dollop of whipped cream.

Music and movies go together like Queen and Bowie. Apart they’re great, but together they’re sensational.

From the iconic dance sequence soundtracked by "Stuck in the Middle With You" by Stealers Wheel in Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs to the hilarious car-radio faux paus tuned to  “Kashmir” by Led Zeppelin in Amy Heckerling’s Fast Times at Ridgemont High, much of cinema is defined by magical needle drops.

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Which raises the question: Which song from rock’s golden age has been used the most in cinema? According to Far Out magazine and film historians, the answer is Steppenwolf’s “Born to Be Wild” — an era-defining counterculture anthem that has been used in more than 35 major movies, along with countless video games, TV shows, and documentaries. 

Related: 1973 ‘Best American Rock Song’ Ranked Best Classic Rock Needle Drop in Film

“Most famously, the song can be heard in the [1969] cult classic Easy Rider, which is as iconic to film as ‘Born to Be Wild’ is to music,” the outlet writes.

The song is used in the opening sequence of the classic film, starring Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper as a pair of bikers headed cross-country in the pursuit of spiritual freedom. Fresh off a successful and lucrative drug deal, the guys stash their earnings in their American flag-painted gas tank and hit the open sunbaked desert road on their Harley-Davidson choppers as John Kay revs 'em up with, "Get your motor runnin' / Head out on the highway." Classic.

Other films that have become synonymous with the track and its pulsating rhythm, include Problem Child, Dudley Do-Right, Herbie: Fully Loaded, Borat, Paddington, Nymphomaniac: Vol I, and Drive. More recently, the song soundtracked the band's own 2024 documentary, Born to Be Wild: The Story of Steppenwolf.

Originally released in 1968, the song — about two riders hitting the open road from Los Angeles to New Orleans — has become shorthand for rebellion, freedom, and highway drama onscreen. It's become as ingrained in pop culture as the tire tracks etched into the roads where we spent our teenage years peeling out. So, it's wild to think now about the song's writer once dismissing it as a “fluke.”

Related: 1968 Classic Rock Hit That Invented Heavy Metal Became a Generation-Defining Anthem

MarsBonfire, whose real name is Dennis Edmonton, said per Songfacts, the inspiration for the song came from a Hollywood Boulevard poster that read, "Born to Ride," with a picture of a motorcycle on fire. Paired with the experience of owning his first car, a “little secondhand Ford Falcon,” the song was born.  

“All this came together lyrically: the idea of the motorcycle coming out along with the freedom and joy I felt in having my first car and being able to drive myself around whenever I wanted,” he said.

The composition of the song may have come together without a hitch, but its path to success had a few more twists and turns.

“‘Born to Be Wild’ didn’t stand out initially,” he continued. “Even the publishers at Leeds Music didn’t take it as the first or second song I gave them. They got it only because I signed as a staff writer. Luckily, it stood out for Steppenwolf. It’s like a fluke rather than an achievement, though.”

Somehow that “fluke” became one of the most cinematic rock songs ever.

Related: 1965 No. 1 Hit, With the Oldest Lyrics Ever, Became a Timeless Anthem

Forty-nine years ago, the iconic '70s rock band Fleetwood Mac released "Gold Dust Woman," a song that, despite not having a history on the charts, has persevered as an undeniable classic.

"Gold Dust Woman" was released on February 4, 1977 as the B-side single to "You Make Loving Fun" on Fleetwood Mac's widely acclaimed eleventh studio album, Rumours. Even though it never entered the charts as an A-side single, it still experienced major popularity due to the unparalleled success of its parent album.

Rumours quickly became one of the biggest albums of the '70s, dominating the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 LP chart for 31 non-consecutive weeks. It was also certified Diamond (20× Platinum) by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and has sold over 45 million copies worldwide, winning a Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1978.

Stevie Nicks, Lindsey Buckingham, Christine McVie, John McVie of Fleetwood Mac backstage at the Los Angeles Rock Awards on September 1, 1977 in Los Angeles, California.

Richard Creamer/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

The Resurgence of "Gold Dust Woman"

While "Gold Dust Woman" earned wide recognition at the time of its release, it wasn't until the late '90s that the song experienced significant exponential growth in popularity. Following the recording of the band's 1997 live concert album The Dance, the B-side track was reintroduced to new audiences, causing a sudden resurgence. Many radio DJs on Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) stations gravitated toward the track—something that helped to solidify its legacy for years to come.

Since its resurgence, "Gold Dust Woman" has been featured in several Hollywood projects, including Griffin Dunne's 1998 movie Practical Magic, Ryan Murphy's 2013 series American Horror Story: Coven and Prime Video's 2023 original series Daisy Jones & The Six. Aside from on-screen appearances, the song has garnered over 180.5 million Spotify streams—a major feat for a non-charting single.

Nearly 50 years after its release, "Gold Dust Woman" continues to prove its relevance in popular culture. From feature-length projects to the digital era's streaming platforms, Fleetwood Mac shows that a song doesn't always need global chart success to be a lasting hit.

Related: 1973 Rock Classic, Originally Turned No. 1 Hit by Rival Band, Became a Breakup Anthem

The partner of James Barker, the executive producer of Love Island USA who died at 40 years old in Fiji, while filming the show's eighth season, has spoken out.

"James was the absolute light and love of my life. He brought joy and brilliance to everything he touched," Adam Roth told PEOPLE. "His loss is unimaginable. While it was not enough, I am so thankful for the time we had and the memories we made together."

The two met while at a Billie Eilish concert and have been together for more than four years.

"James was such a champion of the community of young music artists he was able to introduce to audiences on Love Island," Roth added. "We met at a Billie Eilish concert, and live music was a constant in our relationship."

He also reflected on the time they shared, in which he said it was "cut way too short, of course, but we took such advantage of the time we had together."

"I am so proud of the work he did and that he was surrounded by such an amazing team," Roth concluded. "His loss is unimaginable."

The news of Barker's death was reported by TMZ, with the network sharing a statement that said, "ITV America and Peacock will honor in Tuesday’s episode of Love Island USA series Executive Producer James Barker, who passed away last week in Fiji after suffering an unexpected medical emergency.”

“James’ unimaginable loss has been deeply felt across not just the entire Love Island USA production, but throughout all of ITV and Peacock,” the statement continued. “He was a beloved and greatly valued member of our collective family whose kindness, talent and dedication left an indelible mark on all of us and everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. We extend our heartfelt condolences to James’ partner, family, friends and colleagues.”

Peacock also told TMZ that they will be honoring the executive producer in Tuesday’s episode of Love Island USA.

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If you’d prefer not to wear shorts or skirts this summer but also don’t want to melt in the heat, Amazon has a pair of flowy, wide-leg pants on a lightning deal ahead of Prime Day that can help keep things breezy. Right now, you can snag the Feiersi Baggy Wide-Leg Pants for just $13, down from $26. They come in 39 colors, including solids, florals, and corduroy options, with sizes ranging from small to 3XL.

The pants are made from a rayon-polyester blend and have a high-rise fit, elastic waistband, wide legs, and a harem-style curved hem. They also have deep pockets, so you can keep your phone, keys, wallet, or lip balm close without needing a purse. They’re machine-washable, too, though the care instructions recommend using cold water and hanging them to dry.

Feiersi Baggy Wide Leg Pants, $13 (was $26) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

These are the pants you’ll be reaching for on days that feel too sticky to even think about jeans. They’re flowy enough to feel comfortable and breathable, but the high-waisted style and curved hem shape keep them from looking overly casual, so you could wear them for a long travel day, a beach weekend, a grocery run, or a casual dinner without them looking out of place.

Shoppers have called these pants “lightweight, “super comfy,” and “breezy.” One reviewer said they’re the “perfect summer pants,” noting they’re also “perfect for travel." “The fabric feels airy and great for warm weather,” a third reviewer wrote, adding that the pants are “fun, flowy, and flattering.” 

With 39 colors to choose from, there are so many ways to style these flowy pants. You could pair one of the solid colors with a fitted tank, slides, and a tote for daytime plans. The printed pairs would look great with a plain white tee or even a swimsuit underneath on vacation. You could also wear one of the darker colors with sneakers for errands or dress them up with heeled sandals and jewelry for brunch.

Shop More Deals

• Bestbee Wide-Leg Palazzo Pants, $15 (was $24) at Amazon
• Dlooda Flowy Wide-Leg Pants, From $15 (was $30) at Amazon
• Yousify Wide-Leg Boho Pants, From $10 (was $25) at Amazon

Related: Amazon's 'Buttery Soft' Joggers Are 'Breathable,' Perfect for Summer Walks, and Just $10 Ahead of Prime Week

Since Amazon already has plenty of deals popping up ahead of Prime Day, now is the perfect time to snag these. At just $13, they’re easy to justify if you want something cooler than jeans without having to reach for shorts or a skirt every time it gets hot out. But act quickly, the Feiersi Baggy Wide-Leg Pants are a lightning deal. Be sure to get them before they sell out on Amazon.

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For nearly five decades, Russell Hitchcock has been one of the most recognizable voices in soft rock.

The longtime lead singer of Air Supply is celebrating his 77th birthday, marking another personal milestone amidst a career that has produced some of the genre's most beloved love songs.

Born on June 15, 1949, in Melbourne, Australia, Hitchcock met songwriter and guitarist Graham Russell while both were performing in the Australian production of Jesus Christ Superstar in 1975. The pair quickly discovered a shared musical chemistry and formed Air Supply that same year.

"The first time I met [Graham Russell] was for rehearsals for Jesus Christ Superstar and we were amongst a few outcasts because most of the people had been in the production business and they were from a theatre background," Hitchcock told Unlocking Connecticut. "We have the same kind of sense of humor, same interest in movies, everything is pretty much like my twin brother."

Their breakthrough came at the end of the decade, but it was the early 1980s that transformed the duo into international superstars. Between 1980 and 1983, Air Supply scored an extraordinary run of Top 10 hits in the United States, including "Lost in Love," "All Out of Love," "The One That You Love," "Every Woman in the World," "Here I Am" and "Making Love Out of Nothing at All."

Among those hits, "The One That You Love" stands above the rest commercially. Released in 1981, it became Air Supply's only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing the duo's place among the biggest acts of the soft rock era.

Throughout it all, Hitchcock's soaring tenor became the band's signature. His ability to effortlessly move between delicate ballads and powerful choruses helped define Air Supply's sound and made songs like "All Out of Love" and "Making Love Out of Nothing at All" enduring radio staples.

Despite changing musical trends, Air Supply never disappeared.

The duo has continued touring almost nonstop for decades, performing hundreds of shows around the world while maintaining one of the most loyal fan bases in classic pop and rock. In 2013, they were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame, recognizing their lasting impact on Australian music.

More recently, Air Supply announced its first new studio album in 14 years, A Matter of Time, proving the duo is still creating new music nearly 50 years after first joining forces.

"This album has been years in the making, and we can't wait for you to hear the songs we’ve created and share this journey with us," the duo told fans via Instagram.

Known affectionately by fans as "Hitch," Russell Hitchcock has remained remarkably consistent throughout his career, continuing to deliver the soaring vocals that first made Air Supply famous.

As he celebrates his 77th birthday, Hitchcock's legacy is secure, not only as the voice behind one of soft rock's biggest No. 1 hits, but as one half of a duo whose timeless love songs continue to resonate with generations of listeners.

Related: '70s Soft Rock Duo Announces Album for the First Time in 14 Years

Fifty years later, one movie can still make an audience flinch at the whir of a dentist's drill.

The 1976 thriller Marathon Man, turning 50 this year, has lost none of its power to terrify. Directed by John Schlesinger and adapted by William Goldman from his own novel, the film stars Dustin Hoffman as Thomas "Babe" Levy, a New York City graduate student and long-distance runner who gets yanked into a deadly web of Nazi war criminals, spies and smuggled diamonds after his secret-agent brother (Roy Scheider) is killed.

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The Scene No One Forgets

At the center of it is Laurence Olivier as Christian Szell, a former Nazi dentist who robbed his Jewish patients, converted the loot into diamonds and resurfaces to collect. Certain that Babe knows where the gems are, Szell interrogates him the only way a dentist can, with a drill and no anesthetic, calmly repeating one question: "Is it safe?" The moment is so seared into pop culture that the line ranks No. 70 on the American Film Institute's list of the 100 greatest movie quotes.

The On-Set Legend

The shoot also produced one of Hollywood's most repeated stories. As the legend goes, Hoffman stayed awake for days to look as wrecked as his character, and when Olivier asked why he looked so rough, the Shakespearean great reportedly replied, "Why don't you just try acting?" Hoffman has since said the line was a friendly joke rather than a jab, but it became shorthand for the clash between Method acting and old-school craft.

Half a century on, Marathon Man still turns up on best thriller lists and still sends viewers straight for the floss. Not bad for a film that made a routine trip to the dentist into one of cinema's great nightmares.